Name: Cream Cheese Kolache Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup warm water (100-110°F); 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 teaspoon sugar; ½ cup sugar; 1 cup milk; ¼ cup shortening or unsalted butter, melted; 1 ½ teaspoons table salt; 1 egg yolk; 3 ⅓ cups bread flour, sifted; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing on dough); 8 ounces cream cheese; ¼ cup sugar; 1 egg yolk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup sugar; ½ teaspoon table salt; ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

The Cream Cheese Kolache Recipe is a quintessential Texas Czech delight that brings together tender, pillowy dough filled with a rich, creamy cheese center and crowned with a buttery streusel topping. This beloved pastry showcases a beautiful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, with a texture that melts in your mouth and a comforting aroma that fills the kitchen. Whether you’re making breakfast for the family or prepping a special brunch, this Cream Cheese Kolache Recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort food treasure.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a metal baking tray filled with a grid of 12 square dough pieces arranged in three rows and four columns. Each dough piece is light beige and soft, with a smooth surface. On top of each dough square is a dollop of creamy white filling that looks thick and fluffy. Around and slightly over the filling, there are small crumbs of a pale, crumbly mixture scattered unevenly. The baking tray rests on a white marbled surface with a blue and white striped cloth partially visible to the right side. The overall scene is bright and clean, focused close-up on the dough pieces ready for baking. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Cream Cheese Kolache Recipe relies on simple yet carefully selected ingredients that each play a vital role in crafting that perfect texture, flavor, and color. From the tangy cream cheese filling to the golden streusel topping, every element complements the others to create a beautiful, mouthwatering pastry.

Warm water (¼ cup, 100-110°F): Activates the yeast for the perfect rise and airy dough.
Active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons, 1 packet): Essential for bringing that fluffy, light crumb.
Sugar (½ cup): Adds sweetness to the dough and balances the tang in the cream cheese filling.
Milk (1 cup): Contributes moisture and tenderness to the dough.
Shortening or unsalted butter, melted (¼ cup): Imparts richness and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
Table salt (1½ teaspoons): Enhances and balances all the flavors.
Egg yolk (1 for dough, 1 for filling): Provides structure and a beautiful golden hue.
Bread flour (3⅓ cups, sifted): Gives strength to the dough for that perfect chewiness.
Unsalted butter, melted (2 tablespoons for brushing): Adds shine and flavor to the finished kolaches.
Cream cheese (8 ounces): The creamy, tangy star of the filling that makes these pastries irresistible.
Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Elevates the cream cheese filling with a hint of warm sweetness.
All-purpose flour (¼ cup for streusel): Creates the base for a crumbly, buttery topping.
Additional sugar (½ cup for streusel): Sweetens the streusel with a lovely crunch.
Table salt (½ teaspoon for streusel): Brings out the buttery notes in the topping.
Cinnamon (⅛ teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and depth to the streusel.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons for streusel): Cut into flour mixture to make perfect crumbly clusters.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Cream Cheese Kolache Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by combining the warm water, active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a small bowl. Give it a gentle stir and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes until the yeast becomes bubbly and doubles in size. This step is crucial because active yeast is the secret behind that airy, fluffy dough we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, melted shortening or butter, salt, and one egg yolk. Stir in the activated yeast mixture. Gradually add one cup of the sifted bread flour at a time, stirring continuously until 3 cups are incorporated and a sticky dough starts to form. This gradual flour addition will help you control the dough’s texture perfectly.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Lightly dust your work surface with the remaining ⅓ cup of bread flour and turn the dough out onto it. Knead for 10 to 12 minutes until it becomes sticky yet elastic. This kneading process helps develop the gluten structure, giving the kolaches their signature chewiness. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for one hour until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Dough Balls

Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a log. Cut the dough into 12 equal pieces, about the size of golf balls, roughly 2 ounces each. Arrange these dough balls in a greased 9 x 13-inch pan, brush them generously with melted butter, cover, and allow them to rise again for 30 minutes. This second rise ensures a tender, airy crumb inside each kolache.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling and Streusel

Using a high-speed mixer, blend 8 ounces of cream cheese with ¼ cup sugar, one egg yolk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. For the streusel topping, combine flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut in the butter with a pastry cutter or fork until coarse crumbles form. These components bring that delicious, sweet creaminess and crumbly texture to the final kolache.

Step 6: Fill and Top the Kolaches

Gently press the center of each dough ball with a lightly floured ¼ cup measuring cup to create a well for the filling. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling into each well. Brush the sides of each kolache with melted butter again, then sprinkle 1 to 2 teaspoons of the streusel over the top. Cover and allow them to rise for another 1 to 2 hours, letting the flavors meld and the dough puff to perfection.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the kolaches for 28 to 33 minutes or until their tops turn a gorgeous golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool for about an hour before slicing. This resting period lets the kolaches set, making them easier to cut without collapsing.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Kolache Recipe

The image shows nine soft, golden-brown rolls arranged in a 3x3 grid inside a silver baking pan. Each roll has a visible creamy, pale yellow layer of cheese or custard on top, nestled in the center and slightly melted. The rolls have a light, fluffy texture with a shiny, slightly crusty surface. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface with a white towel with blue stripes partially visible on the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the classic Cream Cheese Kolache Recipe shines on its own, you can elevate your presentation by dusting a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or adding a small dollop of fruit preserves on top of the cream cheese before adding the streusel. Fresh berries or a subtle drizzle of honey complement the creamy filling beautifully, creating a fresh burst of flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

Serve kolaches alongside a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk for a cozy breakfast experience. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit salads or a simple green smoothie, balancing sweet richness with refreshing elements for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try doubling the cream cheese filling for extra indulgence or top each kolache with a spoonful of high-quality fruit preserves like peach, cherry, or dewberry before baking. You can also arrange these pastries on a tiered serving tray for brunch gatherings or gift them wrapped individually as special treats for family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover kolaches, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh, making it easy to enjoy the next day without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Freezing

To enjoy your Cream Cheese Kolache Recipe anytime, freeze them after baking and cooling completely. Wrap each kolache individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover kolaches in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes or until warmed through. For a quicker option, microwave for about 20 seconds, but keep in mind the oven method helps maintain that delightful crispness on the streusel topping.

FAQs

Can I substitute cream cheese with another cheese for the filling?

While cream cheese is traditional and gives that distinctive creamy tang, you can experiment with ricotta or mascarpone for a different texture but similar richness. Just keep in mind the flavor and consistency will vary slightly.

How long should I let the dough rise?

The dough needs a total of around 3 hours and 30 minutes of rising time split across different stages: one hour after kneading, 30 minutes after shaping dough balls, and 1 to 2 hours after filling and topping the kolaches. This slow rise develops the ideal texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! This Cream Cheese Kolache Recipe can easily be made by hand using a wooden spoon for mixing and a lot of elbow grease for kneading. The key is to knead until the dough gains elasticity and no longer sticks excessively.

What’s the best way to measure bread flour?

Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing the flour. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. This helps keep your dough texture just right without being too dense or dry.

Can I add fruit fillings to this recipe?

Definitely! One popular variation is topping the cream cheese filling with 1 tablespoon of quality fruit preserves like peach, cherry, or dewberry before adding the streusel. This adds a juicy burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.

Final Thoughts

You simply can’t go wrong with the Cream Cheese Kolache Recipe when you want a warm, comforting pastry that feels like a hug in every bite. The rich cream cheese filling, tender dough, and delightful streusel topping come together harmoniously to create a truly special treat. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and enjoy the wonderful experience of baking and savoring a classic favorite that’s been cherished for generations.